Peeking over the edge, what do you see? This is Kirari-Deck. It offers a unique perspective. Let’s explore its significance together.
The Edo Tokyo Kirari Project aims to elevate traditional skills. It also seeks to improve products rooted in Tokyo’s heritage. The project invites contemporary artists to collaborate. They enhance these traditions from a fresh viewpoint. This project then shares them with the world.
One notable collaborator is Noritaka Tatehana. He is a contemporary artist. He is active both in Japan and internationally. Tatehana served as the exhibition director for “Edo Tokyo Rethink.” This exhibition took place at the Kyu-Iwasaki-tei Gardens.
Tatehana’s creative process centers on rethinking ancient Japanese culture. He asks what should be expressed by reviewing traditional culture. “Rethink” proposes new values for traditional industries. It highlights their enduring appeal.
The Kyu-Iwasaki-tei Gardens is an important cultural property. It was built in 1896. It served as the main residence for Iwasaki Hisaya. He was the 3rd president of Mitsubishi. He was also the eldest son of Iwasaki Yataro. Iwasaki Yataro was the founder of the group.
Originally, the premises included twenty buildings. These buildings were spread across 15000 tsubo. Currently, the site is one-third its original size. Only three buildings remain. These include the western-style residence and the billiard room. There is also a Japanese residence.
After the war, the GHQ requisitioned the site. Later, it became national property. It was used as the Legal Training and Research Institute of the Supreme Court. The western residence and billiard room were designated as important cultural properties in 1961.
Noritaka Tatehana was born in Tokyo in 1985. He graduated from the Arts Course Department of Crafts at Tokyo University of the Arts. He gained notoriety for his heel-less shoes. These shoes were inspired by Oiran Takageta wooden clogs. Lady Gaga adopted these shoes.
Tatehana collaborates with traditional craftsmen. His work features in exhibitions worldwide. Many pieces are in permanent collections. These collections can be found at institutions like the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. There are also pieces at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.
Tatehana’s message emphasizes “old meets new.” He believes Tokyo’s appeal lies in its shops. These shops have carried on craftsmanship. They preserve culture and tradition from the Edo period to today.
Tatehana sees “old meets new” as rethinking heritage. Traditions should be reinterpreted. Modern meanings should be added. He connects the past and present. This happens through collaborations with crafts and performing arts.
Exhibition design is crucial. The relationship between the works and the space matters. Light changes throughout the day. This affects how the artworks are perceived. The Edo Kiriko Hanashyo works are displayed in the sunroom. Morning light enhances them. The Wadaiko Miyamoto Unosuke Shoten exhibition is in the lady’s guest room. The evening sun highlights the mikoshi palanquin.
Kirari-Deck offers a space to appreciate Tokyo’s traditional industries. It also showcases innovative collaborations. It bridges the past and the present. It inspires a fresh perspective on Tokyo’s cultural heritage.
As you leave the Kirari-Deck consider its message. Tradition and innovation can coexist. They enrich each other. Tokyo continues to evolve. It respects its roots while embracing the future.